A Change of a Dress: Kalamunda Artisan Market fundraiser to help Muchea toddler

Muchea youngster Joel Cornwallis is proving to be a fighter after contracting a deadly infection.

WHEN Joel Cornwallis (2) came down with a fever in August while playing at home, little did his family expect that 36 hours later he would be fighting for his life in the intensive care unit at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH).

Mum Kerry said doctors had prepared the family to say goodbye.

“A Strep A bacteria infection led to septic shock and he rapidly went into multi-organ failure resulting in him being resuscitated on arrival into ICU,” she said.

“We were told to prepare to say goodbye to him but our stubborn defiant little fighter had other plans.

“Joel has amazed the doctors with his progress and willpower and keeps overcoming the obstacles thrown at him.

“It has been a rough few weeks with every few steps forward followed by a set back.

“We have a long road ahead as the septic shock along with the medications used to keep him alive caused damage to his hands and feet.”

To help raise money for Joel’s ongoing medical needs, Kingsley resident Caitlin Turner has organised A Change of a Dress fundraiser at the Kalamunda Artisans Market on November 4.

“In the last fortnight Joel has had his right hand and right foot amputated, with a further two surgeries coming up on his left foot and hand,” she said.

“He’s recovering at home now but the family have to make the long journey from their home in Muchea to PMH every second day for check ups.

“In order to help raise funds to aid Joel’s lengthy recovery, the Kalamunda Artisan Markets have kindly donated a stall for us to use so we can hold a pre-loved dress sale.

“Please come along to this wonderful market, spoil yourself with a beautiful new dress and help raise much needed funds for this very worthy cause.”